Ten Things You Didn’t Know Happened Right After Birth

When you’re expecting a baby, there’s a lot of focus on the months leading up to birth — the antenatal appointments, the preparation for labour, and the changes your body goes through. But what happens after the baby is born? Many expectant parents find themselves unprepared for the physiological and emotional changes that occur right after delivery. The period immediately following birth is not just about meeting your baby; it’s about your body adjusting to life postpartum.

In this article, we’ll discuss ten things that happen right after birth, many of which might surprise you. From the process of placenta delivery to your body’s hormonal shifts, these changes are essential to understand as part of the journey of antenatal care and beyond. Read on to learn what to expect in the hours and days after childbirth and how these changes affect your overall pregnancy care.

1. Delivery of the Placenta: A Crucial Part of the Birth Process

One of the most important processes immediately following the birth of your baby is the delivery of the placenta. After your baby is born, the uterus continues to contract to expel the placenta, which is an essential step in antenatal care. While the birth of the baby might feel like the ultimate moment, the placenta’s delivery is equally significant. It’s often referred to as the “third stage of labour.”

Although the placenta might not receive as much attention as the baby, it is vital for your postpartum care. Your healthcare team will check the placenta to ensure it has been completely expelled. In some cases, if parts of the placenta remain in the uterus, it can lead to complications, such as infection or excessive bleeding.

2. Uterine Contractions Continue After Birth

After the baby is born, you might expect your body to immediately return to normal. However, your uterus doesn’t just stop working once the baby is out. It continues to contract in the hours after birth to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. These contractions, often called “afterpains,” can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you’ve had more than one baby. The process of uterine involution helps your body heal and can also contribute to post-birth bleeding as the uterus sheds excess tissue and blood.

Many women find that these afterpains are most noticeable while breastfeeding, as the hormones released during nursing trigger the contractions. It’s perfectly normal to experience this, but if the pain is too intense, make sure to mention it to your midwife or doctor, as there are ways to manage it.

3. Your Hormones Are All Over the Place

One of the most significant changes after birth is the fluctuation in your hormone levels. Throughout pregnancy, your body has been preparing for the birth of your baby by producing high levels of pregnancy hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. Once the baby is born, these hormone levels suddenly drop, which can cause a variety of physical and emotional effects.

The sudden hormonal shift may lead to feelings of baby blues or even postpartum depression (PPD) for some women. Understanding these hormonal changes can help you prepare for the emotional aspects of postpartum care. You may also experience physical symptoms like night sweats, which are common due to your body adjusting to the new hormone levels. In the following weeks, your hormones will continue to fluctuate, and your body will slowly return to a more balanced state.

4. Your Breasts Begin to Prepare for Milk Production

Another significant change right after birth involves your breasts. For the first few days after delivery, your breasts produce a thick, nutrient-rich substance called colostrum. This early milk is packed with antibodies and nutrients that are essential for your newborn’s health. Your baby will begin feeding on this colostrum soon after birth, which helps to establish a strong foundation for breastfeeding.

Around two to five days postpartum, your milk will “come in” – a process known as lactogenesis. This can result in your breasts becoming fuller, firmer, and sometimes a little sore. For many women, this is when breastfeeding becomes a challenge. It’s important to seek support from antenatal classes or lactation consultants if you encounter any difficulties with breastfeeding during this time.

5. Postpartum Bleeding (Lochia)

After birth, women will experience a type of bleeding known as lochia. This bleeding is the body’s way of shedding the remaining uterine lining, tissue, and blood that was necessary for pregnancy. The amount of bleeding varies from woman to woman but can last from four to six weeks. In the first few days after birth, the bleeding can be quite heavy, similar to a heavy period, but it should gradually decrease in volume.

While postpartum bleeding is normal, it’s essential to monitor it and inform your healthcare provider if you notice any sudden or excessive bleeding, as this could indicate complications such as postpartum haemorrhage. It’s a good idea to discuss antenatal care strategies with your provider beforehand, so you’re prepared for this phase.

6. Your Body Begins to Heal from the Birth

Regardless of whether you gave birth vaginally or via caesarean section, your body requires time to heal. Vaginal birth can leave you with tears or episiotomies that need to be stitched, and the recovery from these tears can take a few weeks. A prenatal massage in the weeks leading up to your due date can help prepare your perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) for birth and reduce the likelihood of severe tears.

If you had a caesarean section, your healing process will look different. Your incision site will need careful attention, and the recovery may be longer as you’ll be recovering from surgery. Regardless of how you gave birth, rest and self-care are crucial for recovery, and your healthcare provider will guide you on how to care for your body in the weeks after childbirth.

7. You May Experience Urinary or Bowel Issues

In the aftermath of childbirth, some women experience temporary urinary or bowel issues. This can include incontinence or difficulty urinating, particularly after a vaginal birth. The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and bowels, undergo significant stress during pregnancy and birth, and this can cause temporary issues. Kegel exercises and antenatal yoga can help strengthen these muscles during pregnancy, which may aid in faster recovery postpartum.

Constipation is another common issue. The stress of birth, combined with hormonal changes and the pressure of a new baby, can lead to constipation. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and possibly using stool softeners (with your doctor’s approval) can help manage this issue. Additionally, relaxation during pregnancy through antenatal massage can help relieve stress and improve digestion, which can be beneficial postpartum as well.

8. Your Skin May Experience Changes

After childbirth, some women notice changes in their skin. You might experience pregnancy-related pigmentation fading, like the dark line running down your belly (linea nigra) or any dark spots on your face (melasma). However, you might also notice new changes in your skin, such as dry patches or breakouts, as your hormone levels fluctuate.

Your skin’s elasticity may also take time to adjust after the stretching that occurs during pregnancy. Stretch marks may remain, but they will gradually fade in colour and appearance. Maintaining a good skincare routine, including moisturising and staying hydrated, can help you take care of your skin during this transitional period.

9. Postpartum Contraception: Considerations for Family Planning

After birth, many women are keen to think about family planning and pregnancy care moving forward. It’s important to discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider during your antenatal appointments, as some methods may be more suitable for postpartum women than others. Certain birth control methods, like the IUD or the implant, can be used right after delivery, while others, like hormonal pills, may take a few weeks before they’re safe to use. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your options and how they align with your plans for future pregnancies.

10. The Emotional Rollercoaster: Hormonal and Mental Health Adjustments

Finally, after the excitement of childbirth comes the emotional and mental recovery. While it’s normal to feel elated and exhausted, you may also experience unexpected emotions, ranging from anxiety to sadness. The baby blues affect many women due to the sudden hormonal drop after birth. This temporary emotional state can include mood swings, irritability, and tearfulness.

However, it’s important to distinguish the baby blues from postpartum depression (PPD), a more serious condition. If you feel overwhelmed, excessively sad, or unable to care for yourself or your baby, it’s important to seek help. Antenatal support can include preparing for the emotional challenges of motherhood, and your healthcare provider can recommend resources for mental health support in the postpartum period.

Conclusion

The period immediately following birth is an intense, transformative time for both mother and baby. Understanding the changes that happen after childbirth can help you prepare for the physical and emotional challenges you might face. From hormonal shifts to the delivery of the placenta and the healing of your body, there’s a lot going on behind the scenes.

By staying informed about antenatal care, postpartum care, and the adjustments your body will make, you can ensure a smoother transition into motherhood. And remember, it’s always a good idea to seek guidance from your antenatal clinic or trusted healthcare providers when you’re unsure or concerned about any aspect of your recovery.